Whether you’re looking to expand your horizons or break new ground on a scenic view, these Chicago hiking trails exceed expectations with awe-inspiring rivers, lush forests and breathtaking mountains.
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The Chicago Lakefront Trail features views of Lake Michigan throughout the excursion, coupled with stunning sights of the skyline visible on the main part of the trail. Within an 18.5-mile-long stretch, you’ll find numerous park connections and cultural attractions to explore, including gardens, parks, beaches and more. Chicago Lakefront between Ardmore Ave. and 71st St.
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This fan-favorite local hiking spot boasts an immense woodland, savanna and floodplain ecosystem that serves as a hub for wildlife conservation and features a crucial corridor for migratory birds. If you’re looking to view wildlife species in their natural habitat and feel a pull toward community restoration, Forest Glen Woods is the ideal destination. Don’t forget to pack a lunch and pay a visit to the picnic pavilion for a quick refuel along the way. 5420 N. Forest Glen Ave.
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This hiking, biking and walking destination encompasses approximately 20 miles of paved and unpaved trails along the North Branch of the Chicago River, ushering trail-goers from downtown Chicago to the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe. As the path continues, visitors can explore various ecological restoration sites and meccas for native wildlife, with options for introductory, intermediate and advanced hikers alike. North Branch of the Chicago River between Gompers Park and the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe
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Known for housing Rocky Glen waterfall, Sawmill Creek bluff overlook and an extensive network of trails, Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is a hiking spot that will have you wondering if you’re still in Illinois. This forest preserve is the ultimate spot for a family outing, complete with nearly 11 miles of limestone- and turf-covered routes, a conveniently marked course near the trailhead, 740 native plant species, abundant local wildlife and breathtaking prairies, savannas and oak-maple woodlands. At the intersection of Northgate Road and Cass Ave. in Darien
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Journey through sand dunes, quiet woodlands, sunny prairies and lush wetlands along this scenic path, which is situated along Lake Michigan. The park boasts a campground, a full-service resort, a camp store, multiple picnic areas, hiking and biking trails and a seasonal visitors center. On Indiana State Road 49, between U.S. Highway 20 and Interstate 94, Porter, Ind.
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This state park, centered around the scenic Kankakee River, is home to pristine natural beauty, opportunities for outdoor activities and a rich history that dates back to the mid-17th century. In addition to hiking, this spot is ideal for a wide variety of water activities and features a vast network of awe-inspiring trails to explore. 5314 IL-102, Bourbonnais
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This park is the only remaining beach-ridge shoreline in Illinois that features dunes, swales, marshes, forests and a diverse ecosystem, which also includes threatened and state-concern species. The hiking location boasts an abundance of plant life sights for flora and fauna enthusiasts, with more than 650 species of plants in the dunes alone, including dozens of types of colorful wildflowers. 1 Lake Front Drive, Zion
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Located off of the Kishwaukee River, Oak Ridge Forest Preserve is the place to go for views of restored prairie and ancient oak groves. It’s also a hot spot for equestrian enthusiasts, featuring 7.5 miles of connected trails that lead to Deer Run Forest Preserve. The forest also boasts seasonal woodland flowers and ample shade in the lush woods. 8321 Blomberg Road, Cherry Valley
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With dramatic sandstone canyons, seasonal waterfalls and unique rock formations, this hiking hot spot is a sight to see. Starved Rock State Park is notoriously one of the most stunning places in Illinois, offering a captivating adventure for visitors of all ages with 13 miles of trails, river views and on-site activities like guided hikes, river cruises and more. 2678 E. 873rd Road, Oglesby
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If you’re looking for a hiking spot with unique sights you won’t find anywhere else, Devil’s Lake State Park is the perfect spot. This park protects some of Wisconsin’s rarest wildlife and plant species while also housing ancient Native American burial and ceremonial mounds. The park’s 30 miles of hiking trails travel along 500-foot quartzite bluffs and overlook a 360-acre lake. S5975 Park Road, Baraboo, Wis.
See also: The Ultimate Chicago Neighborhood Guide
Photography by: Getty Images
